The plane isn't in trouble, it's a torpedo attack plane! It has to fly low and slow in order to release it's torpedo. As your ship's crew watches in horror the plane releases its torpedo at you. Fortunately a well aimed cannon shell rocks the plane just as it releases the torpedo, the aircraft lurches and crashes into the sea. Its torpedo speeds through the water, but passes by the stern of your ship.

A narrow miss! You make a note to never be fooled again by a torpedo attack.